Lead Game Programmer

Placements24; Vereeniging; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Education opportunities

Generous PTO

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Lead Game Programmer in Vereeniging to guide the programming team in architecting and implementing core technology for our game titles. You will mentor developers, collaborate with designers and artists, and ensure performance and scalability across platforms.

The role requires strong C++ skills, deep knowledge of game architecture, and leadership experience. Hybrid work is available, with opportunities to influence long-term technology strategy.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in game programming, with 2+ years in a lead/senior role.
• Strong C++ expertise and experience with Unreal Engine or Unity.
• Experience with version control and agile methods.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, implementation, and optimization of game engine systems and features.
• Mentor and guide junior and senior programmers, fostering growth.
• Collaborate with designers and artists to translate gameplay concepts into technical requirements.
• Oversee code quality, performance optimization, and debugging efforts across the team.
• Contribute to technical architecture decisions and long-term technology strategy.

Skills

Game programming

Lead role

C++

Unreal/Unity

Game architecture

Leadership

Git

Agile

Tools

Git

Unreal Engine

Unity

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking an experienced and passionate Lead Game Programmer to guide their programming team in Vereeniging . You will play a crucial role in architecting and implementing the core technology that powers our innovative game titles. This leadership position requires a strong technical foundation, excellent problem-solving abilities, and the capacity to mentor and inspire a team of talented developers. You will work closely with designers, artists, and producers to bring ambitious game concepts to life, ensuring robust performance, scalability, and cutting-edge features across multiple platforms, fostering a collaborative and high-achieving engineering culture.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, implementation, and optimization of game engine systems and features.
• Mentor and guide junior and senior programmers, fostering their technical and professional growth.
• Collaborate with designers and artists to translate gameplay concepts into technical requirements.
• Oversee code quality, performance optimization, and debugging efforts across the team.
• Contribute to technical architecture decisions and long-term technology strategy.

Requirements

• 5+ years of professional experience in game programming , with at least 2 years in a lead or senior role.
• Strong proficiency in C++ and experience with game engines like Unreal Engine or Unity.
• Deep understanding of game architecture , physics, AI, and rendering systems.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with version control systems (e.g., Git) and agile development methodologies.

Benefits

• Highly competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Hybrid work model balancing office collaboration and remote flexibility.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Generous paid time off and opportunities for continuing education.
• A creative and stimulating work environment with exciting projects.